spacer graphic Mattapan Branch Library
1350 Blue Hill Avenue, Mattapan, MA 02126
617-298-9218
Branch Librarian: Maurice Gordon
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exterior of branch

Image courtesy of
William Rawn Associates, Architects, Inc.

Read more about the planning of the new branch.

Hours

Directions

Map

Current programs and activities

For more information about the Mattapan community

Find out about the new Branch Program and Site Planning Project

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DISTINCTIVE ASPECTS OF THE COLLECTION
There are small, but high quality, Multicultural and French language collections.

RECURRING PROGRAMMING OFFERED
Weekly preschool story hours, and homework assistance.  Monthly adult book group.
CURRENT PROGRAM SCHEDULE:
 Adult Book Discussion Group - 3rd Tuesday of each Month

SPECIAL PROGRAMMING OFFERED
Lecture programs are typically offered in the fall or spring focusing on topics of local interest including local history. There are some author and jazz programs for adults. Summer reading programs are offered for children.

HISTORY
As early as December 18,1849 the people of Mattapan were concerned about library facilities. It was on that date that Increase S. Smith founded the Mattapan Library Association. On May 2, 1854, the Boston Public Library opened, and in 1870 the suburb of Dorchester, which included Mattapan, was annexed to Boston. The Mattapan Branch evolved over many years beginning with a reading room attached to the delivery station in the Oakland Hall Building in Mattapan. In 1898, the book collection consisted of ninety-eight volumes.

Around 1924, the population of Mattapan began a rapid increase. As newer groups began to establish themselves in the more central Boston neighborhoods, Jewish immigrants moved in large numbers to Mattapan.

The small reading room was granted Branch status in 1923, but could not meet the demand of the growing population. Annual circulation climbed from 20,000 volumes in 1924 to 75,010 in 1926. Mattapan residents requested a new library. Citizens' letters and petitions took effect, and on June 22, 1931 the Mattapan Library Branch at 10 Hazelton Street opened its doors.

The Hazelton Street branch served the neighborhood well for more than 75 years, but a new chapter began February 28, 2009. On that date, the Mattapan community, after many years of activism and dedication, celebrated the opening of an architecturally-stunning, technologically enhanced, and service-rich new Mattapan Branch at 1350 Blue Hill Avenue.

Mattapan reading room 1931

Mattapan as it looked in August of 1931.